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Phoenix is Arizona's largest city and the state's capital city. Because of its mild winters, Phoenix attracts many retired seasonal RV campers. In the spring, summer and fall, the city is popular with vacationers and families with young children because of its proximity to state parks, spas and outdoor attractions. Sports and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of outdoor attractions and activities a short drive from Phoenix. RV camping offers visitors an affordable and flexible way to explore the Phoenix area.

Camping Information

Because of a mild winter climate, Phoenix campgrounds are open year-round. Public campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but private campgrounds should be reserved at least a few months in advance year-round. All individual campsites have a barbecue grill, fire rig and picnic table. Keep in mind that private RV parks tend to offer more amenities and services than their public counterparts, so families and inexperienced campers might be happier at private campgrounds.

Camping Considerations and Warnings

Phoenix temperatures can reach the triple digits in summer, so fall, spring and even winter can be a more comfortable time to go RV camping. Also, if you plan to participate in outdoor sports between May and October, be sure to bring at least one gallon of water per camper to avoid dehydration. Pack the sunscreen and bug repellent and bring sturdy hiking shoes to stay safe while mountain climbing, rock climbing and hiking.

Public RV camping

Public RV camping is available at Tonto National Forest and White Tank Mountain Regional Park. There are nearly three dozen campgrounds at Tonto National Forest, most with no electric or water hookups. However, most campgrounds have vault toilets and coin-operated showers. At White Tank Mountain Regional Park, there are 40 campsites, none with electric or water hookups. Group camping is available and there are modern shower and restroom facilities.

Private RV Parks

All private campgrounds offer full electric and water hookups and modern restroom and shower facilities. The Phoenix Metro RV Park caters to the 55-and-older crowd, and offers amenities such as a swimming pool and spa, clubhouse, planned activities, free Wi-Fi, a fitness room and library. The Deserts Edge RV Village caters to families and has a pool, spa, playground, fitness room, book exchange and children's activities. The Deserts Sands RV Park caters to both families and retired folks, and has amenities such as a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi and a coin-operated laundry.

Activities and Attractions

Phoenix attractions include the Desert Botanical Gardens, Enchanted Island Amusement Park and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. For rock climbing, head to Camelback Mountain; for hiking, head to the Tonto National Forest, Lost Dutchman State Park, White Tank Regional Park or Estrella Mountain Regional Park. The Tonto National Forest is perfect for rock and mountain climbing and has elevations ranging between 1,300 and 7,900 feet as well as desert canyons and trout streams. At Lost Dutchman State Park, there are several hiking and biking trails ranging between a quarter mile and four miles. The White Mountain Regional park has 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. Those who want to polish their golf game can head to the 500 Club Golf Course. Museum-lovers should check out the Cave Creek Museum or the Phoenix Art Museum.

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About the Author

Jisel Perilla works as a writer mental health counselor in the Washington, D.C area. She has written and contributed to several Frommer's Travel Guides, as well for a variety of culture, health and entertainment publications. She majored in English and minored in Spanish at the University of Mary Washington in Frederickburg, Va., and has traveled extensively throughout Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa.

Photo Credits

Arizona state contour with Capital City against blurred USA flag image by Stasys Eidiejus from Fotolia.com